Suspect wants names of tipsters in drug trial

TRENTON — Smiling and smirking at times, Tareef Robinson argued some fine points of law today decked out in an orange prison jumpsuit and jangling shackles.

Suspected heroin and cocaine dealer Robinson said he there was something wrong with him being busted on a search warrant, instead of an arrest warrant.

He also told Mercer Superior Court Judge Pedro Jimenez he wants to know who informed on him, helping cops bust him for possession of narcotics.

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“If they have the buys, they have the buys,’’ Robinson said, referring to undercover drug buys allegedly made from him.

The judge told Robinson the prosecutors didn’t need the tipsters’ testimony to put him away. The amount of drugs seized from him presumes “possession with intent to distribute,’’ the judge said.

Jimenez said he’d take himself off the case if the suspect wants. “But you’re going to get no better shot than in this courtroom.’’

Assistant Mercer Prosecutor Stephanie Katz said she’ll be ready to make a plea offer at the next Robinson hearing, set for Sept. 9.

About the Author

Paul Mickle is a reporter for The Trentonian and a past editor of the newspaper. He is best known for his 16 years of work as a crime reporter and has won several journalism awards. Reach the author at pmickle@trentonian.com
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